EXCLUSIVE: The Story Behind Jessica Simpson's 'Romantic' Ruby Ring!

When it came to picking out the perfect engagement ring for Jessica Simpson, beau Eric Johnson knew it had to be truly special. “Eric wanted the most romantic, beautiful, special ring for Jessica,” celebrity jeweler Neil Lane tells PEOPLE exclusively. The result? A three-stone Lane sparkler with a large central ruby — over 5 carats! — flanked by two pear-shaped diamonds, also more than five carats. While the ruby just so happens to be Simpson’s birthstone, the gem “represents love,” says Lane. “The ruby is a stone of love and it is the most romantic gem and it’s very rare and very, very special.” Sources tell us Simpson was “totally surprised” by the proposal and thrilled by the ring. Nice work, Eric! ––Elizabeth Leonard

My engagement ring is a ruby, but I like it a whole lot more than this ring. Mine is in an antique platinum setting with diamonds and a slightly oval ruby that’s a little over 3 carats. This ring is just big and gaudy, not very well designed. I’m surprised that Neil Lane had this thing in his collection. The stones would look a lot more classy in a plain platinum bezel setting, but to each his own! Hope they’ll be happy. In the end, that’s what really counts.

Casey
on November 15th, 2010

Love the ring. Not sure about the gold setting, but I love non-traditional rings. My husband gave me a sapphire and diamond engagement ring and I LOVE it still. Been married almost 11 years!

Allison
on November 15th, 2010

It’s a beautiful ring. Ruby is my birthstone and I think a colored stone is appropriate. I hope this marriage works. Jessica seems to be a serial dater, like Kim Kardashian. They haven’t known each other for very long.

Kate
on November 15th, 2010

Are you serious Brittany??? Like you would turn that ring down!! Don’t be such a snob!!

amy
on November 15th, 2010

I am a big fan of Jessica’s & wish her & Eric all the best!! Love the ring!!

Robin
on November 15th, 2010

The ring is beautiful. When my husband and I went looking for wedding rings, I chose one with an emerald center stone. He said I couldn’t have an emerald stone in my wedding ring to which I replied, “Why not, it’s my ring!” Who says they always have to be diamonds.

april
on November 15th, 2010

I wear a 4 carat garnet and love it, it is unique and reflects the emotion that lives between the me and the wonderful man I married 22 years ago!

ADS1010
on November 15th, 2010

It is a beautiful ring but would definitely look better set in white gold or platinum.

Elizabeth
on November 15th, 2010

Well it is pretty, but not for an engagement ring. Nothing says it all like a diamond. I also do wonder how did he pay for it, too.

Renee
on November 15th, 2010

wasn’t her engagement ring from Nick a pear shaped diamond, and now he has given her pear shaped diamonds on her engagement ring…tacky! can’t this guy come up with his own ideas!